Festive feasting – Edinburgh’s top dining destinations this Christmas time

As we approach the season of ho, ho, ho, if slaving over a stove isn’t your idea of festive cheer, why not let one of Edinburgh’s restaurants and bars take the strain instead?

This holiday season, Edinburgh offers an array of dining experiences to satisfy every festive craving. From luxurious set menus to cosy wine bars, here are the must-visit spots for your Christmas celebrations.

The Spence at Gleneagles Townhouse – festive elegance

Transformed from a stunning former banking hall, The Spence promises a Christmas dining experience like no other. Executive Chef Jonny Wright has crafted a menu celebrating Scotland’s finest produce, with options to dazzle every palate.

Festive Highlights:

  • 4-course set menu at £85 per person
  • Signature dishes: Oak smoked salmon, wild game terrine, roast turkey
  • Christmas Day menu at £165, including Veuve Clicquot champagne
  • Seasonal cocktails from £12

The Ivy: Alpine winter wonderland afternoon tea

Elevate your festive gatherings with The Ivy’s magical sparkling afternoon tea in The Ivy’s alpine winter wonderlan

  • Priced from £35.75 per person, start with seasonal finger sandwiches, finishing off with festive sweet treats including wintery Coconut and Chocolate Snowball, a creamy Orange and Cranberry Éclair and a Pistachio, Almond and Cherry Battenberg. Of course, no festive afternoon tea would be complete without a mince pie and The Ivy’s Almond Mince Pie – the perfect way to round off the meal.
  • Optional Nyetimber English Sparkling Wine
  • Or if you’re looking for a break away from the Christmas shopping, guests can also enjoy a cream tea with freshly baked fruit scones, clotted cream and strawberry preserve (£11.75pp) with a choice of coffee or teas and infusions or £21.75 with a glass of Nyetimber Cuvee Chérie.

Divino – Old Town Italian festive feast

This intimate Italian wine bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town offers:

  • Rustic wine cellar ambiance
  • Extensive wine list
  • Festive set menus
  • Unique self-serve wine machine
  • Private dining options

Perfect for group celebrations and intimate gatherings, these venues promise to make your Christmas dining memorable. No need to slave over a stove – let Edinburgh’s finest restaurants bring the festive cheer to your table!